Unhappy with Slingshots, need something lighter

[coralcruiser]

I have atomics and apollos. They both weigh around the same but the apollos are shorter in length and can be packed into a smaller size bag. Love the spring straps that are on my apollos but feel that I get more power from my atomics (will probably buy the spring straps for these one of these days).

However, when it comes to traveling long distances (Indonesia, Fiji, etc) I now pack the apollos because of their length.

BTW... started off using the plana avantes back in 1988 but the first time I dove with split fins I knew I was hooked on them!!

 

[tbone1004]

update from my post. My fins are the Aqualung Caravells. I really do like them for most applications. Not the thrust ratio as jets which is important for doubles and a drysuit, but for wetsuits and kicking around the pool they're peachy

 

[Bubbletrubble]

IMO, the best feature of the APS Mantaray fins is portability. They're shorter than all of the fins I've used and fairly lightweight. I own a pair of the black-colored ones, which are made of a stiffer compound than the other colored ones. I believe that the other colors might be slightly positively buoyant, whereas the black ones are slightly negatively buoyant. The foot pocket on the size XL is generous; it fits both my drysuit boots (Bare Trek) and wetsuit boots (Pinnacle hard-soled variety).

In terms of power and speed, I find the fins somewhat lacking. It feels like I have small pieces of cardboard strapped to my feet. That being said, I can do all of my regular kicks with the fins (back, frog, flutter, etc.). The stretchy fin straps are easy to don/doff and can be used as replacement fin straps for most fins that have the molded posts.

The testimonials on the manufacturer's website feature some pretty far-fetched claims. I'd ignore all of the marketing language on the site.

 

[knowone]

I think these fins are very cost effective and very good for diving.

YouTube - TUSA Imprex Tri-Ex Fins - www.simplyscuba.com

 

[fdog]

The best travel fin I've encountered yet (with an asterisk for frog kickers):

Review: Hot Shot Travel fins

...Especially since you indicated an interest for a "split fin feel", these can be made to feel uncannily like splits.


All the best, James

 

[Bubbletrubble]

The best travel fin I've encountered yet (with an asterisk for frog kickers):

Review: Hot Shot Travel fins

@fdog: That's one of the best fin reviews I've ever read. Thanks for sharing that.

 

[chile7236]

that review has me interested in trying these out...i didn't like the sea wing novas and just bought a pair of twin jets since i know they work for me...but as i was walking by the hot shots, i was tempted to try them. maybe, i will now.